The $100K H-1B Visa Shift: What Startup Founders need to know

You’ve probably been keeping up with the updates to the H-1B visa overhaul that has completely changed the hiring landscape for startups.

TechCrunch recently covered a major update to the H-1B visa program — one that could dramatically reshape how early-stage companies hire global talent. 

As noted in the article, the application fee has jumped from roughly $2,000–$5,000 to $100,000 per visa, a move that many founders warn could price startups out of access to international talent while leaving loopholes that large outsourcing firms can still exploit.

Why it matters:
For startups competing in fast-moving industries like tech and AI, attracting specialized international talent can be the difference between scaling or stalling. But this change widens the gap between small companies and enterprise employers — potentially concentrating innovation in the hands of those who can afford it.

From a legal perspective:
Founders need to plan ahead. If your growth strategy depends on hiring globally, now’s the time to revisit your workforce planning and immigration strategy. Consider exploring alternative visa categories, reviewing employment agreements for compliance under evolving federal policy, and working closely with counsel to understand how these changes could impact your hiring costs and timelines.

Read the article for yourself here: https://techcrunch.com/podcast/why-the-new-h-1b-policy-helps-outsourcers-not-startups/

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